Diversity Lecture Series with Learie Nurse, Ed.D. (he/him)
9/23/2021
11 a.m. - Noon
Creating Space to Authentically Dialogue About our Differences
Having a dialogue on diversity, equity, and inclusion can sometimes elicit a range of feelings, emotions, and discomfort. Being able to know one’s own biases and insecurities, rescind and suspend one’s assumptions and then fully immerse in the discomfort is the first step in building an inclusive community. As the Buddhist culture says, “We do not learn from experience, rather our willingness to experience.” Allowing oneself to be vulnerable and to own that we do not know everything is the key to doing diversity work.
This session will focus on the importance of multiculturalism, being comfortable with the uncomfortable, and inclusivity as one way to learn from each other, feel more connected, and enrich the broader community. Great things are birthed through discomfort and as Emmanuel Acho says, "Compassion without confrontation is like fruitless, sentimental commiseration."
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
This session will focus on the importance of multiculturalism, being comfortable with the uncomfortable, and inclusivity as one way to learn from each other, feel more connected, and enrich the broader community. Great things are birthed through discomfort and as Emmanuel Acho says, "Compassion without confrontation is like fruitless, sentimental commiseration."
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Deepen the level of authenic dialogue around diversity, inclusion, and social justice.
- Create a deeper understanding of the use of inclusive language and explore the roots of why language matters.
- Create a welcoming space for uncomfortable spaces to help with personal growth.
About the presenter:
Dr. Nurse currently serves as the associate vice president of Student Engagement at Mary Baldwin University (MBU) in Staunton, Virginia. With a strong commitment to social justice and diversity work, Dr. Nurse is intentional about creating environments where all voices matter. Read more about Nurse's bio, education, and accomplishments here!
